Manchester United and Arsenal handed transfer boost

Atletico Madrid are bracing themselves for the exit of Brazilian-born Spanish striker Diego Costa, according to talkSPORT.

Reports in Spain suggest the forward is considering leaving the Vicente Calderon at the end of the season, news which has alerted a host of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea.

Costa has proved himself to be one of the top strikers in Europe this season, scoring 19 goals in just 16 La Liga games.

His form in front of goal has endured Atletico Madrid head into the winter break level on points at the top of the league with Barcelona, and five points clear of city rivals Real Madrid.

Liverpool reportedly triggered the forward’s release clause in the summer, but the forward refused the move to Anfield and penned a new deal with Atletico.

However, his form in front goal has alerted a host of top clubs, and Atletico remain concerned they may not be able to hold onto him for much longer.

Atletico have previously been forced to sell their big name strikers, with the likes of Fernando Torres, Sergio Aguero, and most recently Radamel Falcao leaving for big money.

And there is a growing expectation among those at the Spanish capital club that Costa will be the next to follow suit.